The Update Magazine - Spring 2026

CHAMPIONS TOGETHER UNIFIED CHAMPION SCHOOL

Forming Disciples of Jesus Christ through the intercession of St. John XXIII.

SPRING UPDATE MAGAZINE 2026

Update Magazine is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement under the direction of Terese Carson, Hon’18, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. Its intent is to be a vehicle to inform alumni, family and friends of recent and upcoming happenings and achievements at the school, as well as showcase the talents and gifts of its students, faculty and alumni.

Editor-in-Chief: Terese Carson, Hon’18 | Deputy Editors: Jeen Endris, Tina Hayes | Design Director: Jeen Endris | Photographers: John Smith, Phil Anderson, Hon’20, Allie Ross R’04, Jeen Endris, AJ Ablog, Julie Albertson | Inquiries/Correspondence: Jamie Riedeman, Roncalli High School, 3300 Prague Road, Indianapolis, IN 46227, (317) 787-8277 ext. 238, jriedeman@roncalli.org. Website: www.roncalli.org. Circulation: 12,969 Email: update@roncalli.org FOR EDITORIAL INFORMATION, CONTACT TERESE CARSON AT (317) 787-8277, EXT. 240 OR TCARSON@RONCALLI.ORG

VISION STATEMENT

Forming disciples of Jesus Christ through the intercession of St. John XXIII

ADMINISTRATION

PRESIDENT: Charles Weisenbach R’79

PRINCIPAL: Kevin Banich R’09

VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT: Terese R. Carson, Hon’18

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE: Wendy Lawrie

VICE PRESIDENT OF FACILITIES: Nathan Miller

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR ACADEMICS: Beth Reel, Hon’25

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR STUDENT LIFE: Michael Wantz

DEAN OF STUDENTS: Tim Crissman

GUIDANCE DIRECTOR: Lisa Beckwith R’01

DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL SERVICES: Michelle Roberts, Hon’24

CAMPUS MINISTRY DIRECTOR: Katie Hibner R’10

ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: David Lauck R’94

CHAPLAIN COORDINATOR: Rev. Robert Robeson, VF, Ph.D., M.Ed.

Valedictorian & Salutatorian

SOUTH DEANERY PARISHES AND SCHOOLS

Central Catholic School

Principal: Tami Clouse

Good Shepherd Catholic Church

Pastor: Rev. Robert J. Robeson, MDiv, PhD

Holy Name Of Jesus Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Rev. Robert J. Robeson, MDiv, PhD

Principal: Amy Wright

Holy Rosary Catholic Church

Pastor: Rev. Jerry Byrd, MDiv, MA

Nativity Of Our Lord Jesus Christ Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Rev. Eric Augenstein, MDiv

Principal: Mary Beth Keiser

Our Lady Of The Greenwood Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Rev. Todd Goodson, MDiv

Principal: Kent Clady

Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church

Pastor: Rev. Ducanh Pham, OFM, MDiv

St. Ann Catholic Church

Pastor: Very Rev. Joseph Newton, MDiv

St. Barnabas Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Rev. Showreddy Thirumalareddy, MDiv, Administrator

Interim Principal: Ronda Swartz

Saints Francis & Clare Of Assisi Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Very Rev. Stephen Giannini, Hon’18, VF, MDiv

Principal: Rebecca Stone

St. John The Evangelist Catholic Church

Pastor: Very Rev. Timothy Wyciskalla, MDiv

St. Jude Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Rev. Peter Marshall, MSW, DMin

Principal: Beth Meece

St. Mark Catholic Church and School

Administrator: Very Rev. Eric Johnson, VE, MDiv

Principal: Jen Kocher

St. Patrick Catholic Church

Pastor: Rev. Rogelio Martinez -Ruteaga, OFM, MDiv

St. Roch Catholic Church and School

Pastor: Rev. Douglas Hunter, MDiv

Principal: Amy Wilson

“I

POINT OF VIEW

GREAT NEWS - The Catholic Church Is Growing

Chuck Weisenbach R’79, President

There is great news unfolding in the Catholic Church here in the United States and around the world. We are seeing a record number of young people coming into the Church through Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), as well as large numbers of people returning to the Church. The increasing number of young people on college campuses across America who are joining the Church is heartwarming. Here is just a small sampling of what is taking place on campuses all across the country:

• University of Notre Dame - record number of students this year, with 163 (previous high was 55)

• Kansas State University - 110 students (triple the previous high)

• Indiana University - 150 students—record high

• The Ohio State University - 200% increase in the last four years

• University of Nebraska - from 45 to 125 in the last two years

• Texas A & M - 400 students in this year’s OCIA classes, believed to be the largest group in the country

Fr. Peter Marshall

(Pastor, St. Jude Catholic Church, Indianapolis)

“Our

young people are hungry for certainty, for people, ideas and things that are authentic, clear-cut and unchanging.”

Similar increases are happening on countless other campuses in the United States, as well as increased numbers of young people joining the Catholic faith in France, the United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Sweden, Kosovo and many parts of Africa and Asia.

While I am elated at this news and am praying that the trend continues, I am intrigued by what is driving this increasing number of young people to join the Catholic faith. In putting together this article, I reached out to a number of people, asking for input on what each of them felt was behind the increasing numbers. I am sharing with you some of those responses.

Fr. Tim Wyciskalla R’06

(Pastor, St. John The Evangelist Catholic Church, Indianapolis)

think it falls into two categories: the encounter with Christ and community.”

It is difficult to identify a single factor that is leading to this sudden influx of young people interested in joining the Church, but I think it falls into two categories: the encounter with Christ and community. Once they have an encounter with Jesus Christ, they are drawn to deepen that relationship. In the Catholic Church, we have the most direct access to Christ possible in this world in the Eucharist. This provides a powerful attraction to those left feeling empty and filled with anxiety by our secular culture. The next thing I think they are looking for is a community to do that in. Here too, the Catholic Church is singularly attractive. In a world where personal connection is increasingly being replaced by isolating social media, where social life is increasingly divided into political tribes, and where traditional values are constantly under attack, the Catholic Church provides a much more fulfilling alternative.

Our young people are hungry for certainty, for people, ideas and things that are authentic, clear-cut and unchanging. Pope Leo has articulated well the dangers of the growing AI phenomenon (and the larger transhumanism movement) and how the Catholic faith stands outside of this reality. We are a deeply humanistic faith. Our worship involves our whole self, body and spirit, and we have not moved in our teachings. These concrete aspects of our faith, combined with a warm and genuine community, are deeply attractive to many young people who have not experienced this in their highly online and often fragmented lives. Finally, I think that we as Catholics have gotten better at catechesis, the explanation of what we believe and why. We are less embarrassed by how our beliefs diverge from the culture around us. I think that the National Eucharistic Congress was a big help in this regard, and that we will continue to see fruit from this in the years to come.

Most Reverend Charles Thompson (Archbishop of Indianapolis)

Human beings are social by nature, geared toward being communal. Trying to live in a virtual world of social media eventually leads to loneliness, addiction and depression. The effects of COVID, both during and after, had an impact as well. Many were greatly affected by the experience of isolation. Young people, I believe, are hungering for a sense of meaning, belonging and purpose, and they find answers in the Catholic faith. Young people are also attracted to the principles of Catholic prayer, social teaching and outreach. The Church’s mission is evangelization and catechesis, making missionary disciples of Jesus Christ. As such, the Catholic Church is incarnational in its worship, ministries, and services, but especially in the celebration of sacraments. This is especially true of our belief and celebration of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ—Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity—in the Most Holy Eucharist. Ultimately, it’s all about encountering the person of Jesus Christ, Savior of the world. Nothing in the world can compare with the transforming graces of that encounter.

Caren LeMark (Roncalli Theology teacher)

“They find answers in the Catholic faith.”

I really do think the culture itself — and what it offers — is one of the major factors in the turning of young people toward the arms of Mother Church. The world offers comfort, confusion, self-determination and a kind of faux freedom at any cost. The individual becomes his own god — and that is a terrifying reality. It seems that the only “objective realities” the world confidently permits are often lies. Young people are beginning to recognize this. They are rejecting the slavery that the world packages as freedom.

Fr. Steve Giannini

(Pastor, Saints Francis & Clare Of Assisi Catholic Church, Greenwood; St. Martin of Tours, Martinsville)

We give all praise and glory to the Holy Spirit moving in our lives. Social media such as Hallow, Word on Fire, YouTube videos and other great apps and resources that promote our Faith with knowledge, fact and kindness have engaged young adults as individuals, inviting them to explore more. The welcoming by young Catholics who love our Faith and live it in joyful ways is attracting others to explore the Catholic Church. The Eucharistic Congress enlivened our Church in the United States and continues to move hearts. Celebrities and Catholic leaders alike being public about the love of our Faith and our Church (Chris Pratt, Mark Wahlberg, Mother Olga, Father Mike Schmitz) has been a factor as well.

Shea McMahon R’06 (FOCUS Missionary)

“The Eucharistic Congress enlivened our Church...”

Fr. Eric Augenstein

(Pastor, Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Catholic Church; Archdiocesan Director of Seminarians)

In the United States, I believe we’re seeing the ongoing impact of the three-year National Eucharistic Revival in the growing number of young people entering the Catholic Church and also in increased numbers discerning priestly and religious vocations. The Holy Spirit has been moving through these Eucharistic experiences to draw people into the life of the Church, and I think we’ll continue to see the impact of the Revival over the coming years. A very tangible expression of the fruits of the National Eucharistic Revival in our own Archdiocese is in the fact that we currently have 16 men applying to seminary - the most we have seen at one time in well over 25 years.

For the first time in history, many young people are being raised in nonreligious homes, and as a result, they often find themselves facing a crisis of meaning, purpose and identity. I frequently encounter young people who have never been given a Christian framework through which to understand the world or their own lives. Yet when they were introduced to the idea that they were created by a loving God — that their lives have real purpose and meaning — there was something deeply freeing about it for them.

In many ways, the modern world tells young people that they must construct their own identity according to their feelings. But beneath this message lies a deeper human desire: to be truly known and truly loved. Ultimately, this longing can only be fulfilled in God Himself. It’s not new, but because many young people have never been given this worldview, they are searching and, in that search, find stability in Jesus himself.

For many young converts, I believe this search for stability, meaning and authentic love is a primary reason they find themselves drawn to the Catholic Church.

Fr. Bob Robeson

(Pastor, Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church and Good Shepherd Catholic Church; Chaplain Coordinator, Roncalli)

I think there has been a shift in the culture among youth – beginning with groups like FOCUS, Fr. Mike Schmitz, Charlie Kirk, as well as other social media content – but I really think it stems primarily from a desire among young people to find meaning and purpose in a world that is increasingly complex and alienating. Our faith and a relationship with Christ provides a roadmap, a deeper understanding of our purpose on this earth, and even a source of mercy for an age group that is often imperfect and seeking to become more.

“Our faith and a relationship with Christ provides a roadmap...”

There’s a deeper reason, though, that I think is worth considering as we welcome so many members of Gen Z into the Church - and it relates to the simple fact that many of their parents did not raise them in any church or faith tradition. For many generations, the Church in the West was hereditary - if you were born into a Catholic family, you were Catholic. That is no longer the case and hasn’t been the case now for a good 3040 years. So many of the parents of current high school and college-age young people themselves moved away from the Church - many of them becoming “nones” with no religious affiliationand thus did not pass on any religious tradition to their children. For many current college students who are coming into the Church, they had no family religious background - so the presence and activity of the Church on college campuses was a new experience for them, and filled a hole in their hearts that they didn’t even know existed.

“...filled a hole in their hearts that they didn’t even know existed.”

Indeed, the Spirit is moving within our Catholic church, and we give thanks to God our Father for this good news. Roncalli High School is excited to be a part of this good news! We are eager to continue to spread the Good News throughout all of the ministries that unfold within our school community. Please join me in praying that more and more people of all ages and backgrounds will have their own personal encounter with Jesus Christ and be transformed by the saving graces that are present in every encounter with the Savior of the World.

St. John XXIII, pray for us. St. Monica, patron saint for conversions, pray for us.

**Thank you to those who provided me with their input for this article.

REVELATIONS The Ultimate Challenge

Rev. Robert Robeson, VF, Ph.D., M.Ed., Roncalli Chaplain Coordinator

One of the things I really love about Roncalli High School is the way that students are challenged. Whether it is in the classroom, on the athletic fields or in the performing arts, in their personal conduct, or even in their personal relationships with others, Roncalli is a place that challenges young people to strive for more and to make the most of what God has given them.

From the time they arrive as a timid freshman (though some are not necessarily so timid – but most are), they realize that they will actually have to put more time into their studies than they did in grade school. They begin to understand that navigating a school with over 1,000 students, most of whom they have never met before, is going to require social adaptation and going outside their comfort zone. They realize that while they may have been the best player on their CYO football or volleyball team, there are plenty of players who are bigger and stronger and more talented than they ever expected to encounter.

As time goes on, so many of our students rise to these challenges. They work harder in school and in sports, and they learn how to grow in their friendships despite the ups and downs that come with the social drama that can be a part of life in high school. After many years (more than 30) of working with young people, I’ve come to believe that they are hungry to be challenged, especially when it comes to living their faith.

We live in a world that often holds up the false promises of wealth, success, power, fame, and the pursuit of pleasure at any cost. These false promises can often enslave us. They diminish our freedom to pursue the one thing, the one person, the one relationship that can fulfill us – Jesus Christ. The challenge to receive academic accolades, state championships, admission to a prestigious college, or earning a lot of money; these are all great. But they are empty and meaningless unless we pursue the challenge every day to unite our lives to Christ.

Living for Christ is the ultimate challenge that frees us, and brings meaning, joy and fulfillment to everything we accomplish.

One of my favorite passages is from a talk given by Pope John Paul II to young people at one of the first World Youth Days. He said:

Ask yourselves, young people, about the LOVE of Christ. Acknowledge His voice resounding in the temple of your heart. Return His bright and penetrating glance which opens the paths of your life to the horizons of the Church’s mission. It is a taxing mission, today more than ever, to teach men and women the truth about themselves, about their end, their destiny, and to show faithful souls the unspeakable riches of the love of Christ. Do not be afraid of the radicalness of His demands, because Jesus, who loved us first, is prepared to give Himself to you, as well as asking of you. If He asks much of you, it is because He knows you can give much.

Roncalli Royals – Let’s rise to this challenge!

HONOR YOUR SENIOR WITH A BRICK FOR GRADUATION

Have your graduate permanently etched into Roncalli’s Circle of Faith! Order your $200 custom brick by April 30, 2026 to ensure its completion by graduation. Orders received after the deadline, will be installed at a later date. All proceeds from brick sales benefit Roncalli’s Circle of Faith fund projects.

What can I put on the brick?

Your brick can display up to three lines of text, with 16 characters (including spaces and punctuation marks) per line.

How can I be sure the text on my brick will be correct?

You will receive an acknowledgment letter that includes a verification of the engraved text. If something is spelled or listed incorrectly, please contact the Advancement Office at 317-787-8277 ext. 238.

How do I order a brick?

Please download an order form from our website, www.roncalli.org/brick or call the Advancement Office at (317) 787-8277, ext 238.

ADVANCEMENT ANGLE

How do we spend our time?

Terese R. Carson, Hon’18, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

A few months ago, a dear friend and I were discussing how busy our lives are. Sometimes, just trying to find an evening to have dinner together becomes difficult. Then, ironically, that same day, I received an article from another friend about ‘how we spend our time, shows our true priorities’. It really gave me pause, and then I started doing some research on it.

We often speak confidently about our priorities. We say our family comes first, that our health matters or that our faith is central to our lives. But beyond words, there is a more honest measure: how we spend our time. Time, unlike anything else, cannot be reclaimed once it is gone. Because of that, it becomes the clearest reflection of what we truly value.

Many of us say that our faith is important and identify strongly with our beliefs, yet struggle to make time in our daily lives. Prayer can get postponed, and reflection is rushed. Spiritual growth might be on the back burner. Meanwhile, hours may be spent on work, entertainment or distractions. This is not necessarily hypocrisy—it is human nature. Life becomes busy, and without intention, even the things we care most about can be pushed aside. I know that I struggle with this as well.

The same principle applies to other areas of life. If relationships are truly a priority, they require time and presence. If personal growth matters, it must be reflected in consistent effort. Our schedules quietly reveal what we are committed to, even when our words say something different.

Recognizing this can be uncomfortable, but it is also deeply freeing. It offers clarity. When you take an honest look at your day—how many hours go to work, rest, connection, distraction and faith—you begin to see a pattern. That pattern is a reflection of your priorities as they are currently lived, maybe not as they are intended.

Then it is time to realign. Realignment does not require perfection. It begins with small, meaningful choices. Setting aside a few quiet minutes each day for prayer, reading scripture or reflection. Choosing presence over distraction when spending time with loved ones. Making room for acts of kindness, service or gratitude. These moments may seem small, but over time, they shape both character and direction. Ultimately, how you spend your time tells a story. It reveals what you love, what you pursue and what you place at the center of your life. When your use of time aligns with both your values and your faith, that story becomes one of purpose, intention and integrity.

So take a moment to reflect on your days, not with guilt, but with honesty. Ask yourself whether your time reflects what you believe and who you want to become. I did this exercise during Lent, and I was surprised by what I learned. The things that I was spending my time on were not necessarily in direct correlation with my goals and priorities. Trust me, this was not easy, and looking at it honestly might be a challenge. But, I know that it will all be worth it as I am trying to spend my time in the areas that are a priority in my life.

RYKOWSKI VALEDICTORIAN AND CROMER SALUTATORIAN

Senior Marygrace Rykowski was named Roncalli High School’s valedictorian, and senior Anna Cromer was named salutatorian for the class of 2026.

Marygrace excelled both in and out of the classroom. Throughout her high school career, she has been a hard-working student, earning several academic accolades, including National Merit Finalist, National Honor Society, College Board School Recognition and College Board AP Scholar with Distinction awards. Described as a quiet leader, she has been involved in academic clubs such as spell bowl and mock trial and has also shown leadership on the cross country and track teams. With over 400 hours of service, Marygrace’s commitment to volunteer work reflects a deep-seated desire to help others and make a positive impact in her community.

Jessica (Keller) Engel R’99, her school counselor, describes Marygrace as “a student who has not only excelled in academic pursuits but has done so with grace, humility and a heart full of kindness. She is exceptional! I am impressed with Marygrace’s humble heart and kind spirit.”

Marygrace shared, “To me, this award honors the many people who have supported my education, especially my parents and teachers. Roncalli and St. Barnabas prepared me well for college and for life. Rather than marking the end of my studies, this recognition represents my continued pursuit of excellence in higher education. I am grateful that my hard work and the support of those around me led to this honor, and I hope that it will remind me to study diligently and positively contribute to the world in college and beyond.”

Marygrace graduated from St. Barnabas Catholic School and is the daughter of Angela (Matheis) R'98 and John Rykowski. In the fall, she will attend the University of Notre Dame, where she plans to study chemical engineering.

Anna has shown unwavering dedication to both her academics and extracurricular activities.

She serves as CoPresident of Student Council, mentors students with special needs through Royal Buddies, contributes to the community and has been recognized at the state level for academic excellence and leadership.

Anna shared, “I am beyond honored to be named Salutatorian for the Class of 2026, but I am most appreciative of the journey and how it has shaped me. I am blessed with teachers, parents and classmates who challenged me to grow, lead and always strive to be better. My Roncalli community has truly changed my life for the better.”

Anna was recognized for her strong dedication throughout high school with the Lilly Scholarship, which will allow her to attend the University of Notre Dame this fall tuitionfree. She plans to pursue a career as a surgeon.

A graduate of St. Barnabas Catholic School, Anna is the daughter of Christina (Dillon) R’02 and Jeremy Cromer R’97.

“Anna’s life reflects what it means to use one’s God-given talents fully and generously. She is a scholar, a servant-leader and a witness to what can happen when talent is guided by hard work, faith and integrity,” said her school counselor, Angela Maly. (left to right) Valedictorian Marygrace Rykowski and Salutatorian Anna Cromer

TWO RONCALLI SENIORS AWARDED LILLY ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

In January, Roncalli was proud to announce that seniors Eva Aguayo Martinez and Anna Cromer have been selected as 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars for Marion County and Johnson County! Eva received the recognition from the Central Indiana Community Foundation, and Anna was selected by the Johnson County Community Foundation. Lilly Scholars are recognized for their academic excellence, community engagement, character and leadership. As recipients of the prestigious Lilly Scholarship, Eva and Anna will each receive a four-year award covering full undergraduate tuition, required fees and a book stipend at any accredited public or private Indiana four-year college or university. Students are awarded this scholarship based upon their academic work ethic, volunteer work and extracurricular involvement.

“The Lilly Community Endowment Scholarship is one of the most prestigious recognitions a senior can earn, and we are blessed to have two Royals receive this honor.

We are incredibly proud of Eva and Anna. This well-deserved recognition reflects their hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence,” said Roncalli principal Kevin Banich R'09.

Next fall, Eva plans to pursue a nursing or pre-med degree and is currently considering her choice of school. Anna plans to attend the University of Notre Dame and study biochemistry and pre-med.

Eva’s guidance counselor Angela Maly had this to say about her: “Eva has earned this scholarship through her remarkable combination of academic excellence, leadership and character. She approaches every challenge with determination and humility, striving not only for personal success but also to inspire and support those around her. Central to Eva’s life is her faith, which motivates her service in her parish, school and community and shapes the compassion and integrity she demonstrates daily. Through her actions, Eva embodies the values of generosity, responsibility and resilience that this scholarship celebrates.”

Maly, who is also Anna’s guidance counselor, shared: “Anna is a standout scholar whose dedication to academics, leadership and service makes her exceptionally deserving of the Johnson County Lilly Scholarship. She has excelled in a rigorous course load, earned high honors and led as co-president of Student Council, consistently fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. Her Catholic faith informs every aspect of her life, guiding her volunteer work, mentorship and leadership with humility and a heart for service. Anna’s commitment to using her talents for the benefit of others reflects the spirit of this scholarship and promises a lasting, positive impact on her community and beyond.”

Anna Cromer and Eva Aguayo Martinez

HAYES ATTENDS LUGAR SYMPOSIUM

FOR TOMORROW’S LEADERS

Junior Vivian Hayes attended the Richard G. Lugar Symposium for Tomorrow’s Leaders at the University of Indianapolis on Saturday, January 31. Not only was Vivian nominated to attend this event, but she also receives a $5,000 renewable scholarship to study at the University of Indianapolis, if she so chooses.

When asked about the event, Vivian shared, “Attending the UIndy Lugar Symposium allowed me to better understand my place as a young adult in this world. While many, including myself, often wait for the days when we are older to have an impact and a say in society, this event showed me that I do not have to wait. My impact starts today. Being surrounded by academically motivated kids my age not only allowed me to hear new ideas and thought processes, but pushed me to better understand my own. I am blessed I was chosen to attend, as it will truly impact the decisions I will begin making today for my future.”

"Each year, we are able to nominate student leaders to represent Roncalli High School at Richard G. Lugar for Tomorrow’s Leaders at the University of Indianapolis. Our representative, Vivian Hayes, excels not only in her academic achievements but also in her

GIFT AND COAT DRIVE

Vivian Hayes and keynote speaker Steve Inskeep

service and leadership. The entire guidance department is incredibly proud of what Vivian has accomplished and are excited to see how she continues to shape and inspire the world,” said Steven Freck, Roncalli High School college and career counselor.

The Roncalli Athletic Ministry hosted a gift and coat drive on December 4 on the Roncalli High School circle. The low temperatures did not deter the Royals, who came to both volunteer and donate. Over 75 athletes helped unload gifts and coats and served Roncalli cafeteria cookies and hot chocolate to attendees. Royal Rhapsody sang Christmas carols, and Rowdie, the school’s mascot, even got in on the fun. A big thank you to all who donated. The event collected over 600 gifts for The Lord’s Pantry at Anna’s House and more than 300 coats for Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement Program.

"It’s always simply amazing how generous this community is with both its donations and its time," athletic ministry coordinator Julie Albertson said. "Even in the cold, our students found ways to bring Christmas cheer to all who attended!"

R

On Friday, February 13, the Roncalli High School community came together to celebrate R Family Night. Hosted and planned by the R Family Club, the goal of the event was to broaden the community’s understanding of our students' customs and traditions and to deepen social awareness by celebrating the cultural richness of our community.

have in their cultural traditions and how much they enjoyed sharing their gifts with our community.”

This year, the evening featured a cultural fair with student presentations from 10 countries represented in the student body. Attendees were encouraged to visit each booth with their “passport.” They received flag stickers from each country after hearing the student's presentation.

More than 250 audience members then enjoyed a program featuring talented dancers and singers from Roncalli as well as students from Central Catholic and St. Mark Catholic Schools. The program concluded with a fashion show, featuring traditional dress from several countries.

“We were thrilled with the response to this year's event,” said Julie Albertson, journalism teacher and R Family Club coordinator. “The most rewarding thing for me was seeing how much pride our students

Senior Jessica Sui was a group leader for the dance performance and served as social media manager for the event. Jessica shared, “I recruited students from Roncalli and different schools who were willing to participate in the event. I managed the choreography with the guidance of my dance members. The bond of our group strengthened with each practice after school. I also manage the R Family social media accounts with senior Olivia Bodrick to promote the program and bring awareness to students who may be interested.”

Jessica was thrilled about this year’s event. “The dances, poster boards and fashion show captured a glimpse of each individual's story. R Family Night is the only night of the year to advocate cultural pride, confidence and differences. Those differences lead us to share, appreciate and reunite as a family under God. On this special occasion, we are reminded that diversity’s purpose is to grow within the Roncalli community to become as one,” she said.

R Family Day began in 2020 when students expressed a desire to celebrate their cultural identities and share their traditions with the broader school community. Since then, it has grown into a dynamic event featuring student presentations, cultural exhibits and performances.

Principal Kevin Banich R’09 reflected on the event, “It was a beautiful evening celebrating the many cultures that make up our student body and community. We are truly blessed to be part of a school that celebrates and respects the dignity of every person.”

2026 SENIOR ASSIST DAY

Lacey Herschel, Math Department, and Grace Troxell

Katie (Groves) Hibner R’10, Director of Campus Ministry, and Izzie Vermillion

Angie Toner, Math Department, and Nicholas Smith

Regan Happe, Theology Department, and Faith Lowry

In January, the tradition of Senior Assist Day returned, giving students a rare chance to step into the roles of faculty and staff. Seniors applied for positions after reviewing job descriptions of the open positions.

Throughout the day, seniors gained firsthand experience, from leading lessons to handling administrative work. The experience offers a meaningful look into the roles of teachers, principals and staff, helping students better understand the commitment behind every part of school life.

Performing Arts Department: Laura (Horcher) Gottman

and Ellie Bishop, Phil Anderson, Hon’19, and Isaiah Littell, Shannan Masten and Ruby Shoettle, Fran Davey, Hon’20, and Will Stonecipher

Kurt Cunningham R’17, Social Studies Department, and Nolan O’Connor

R’10

Cathy (Howard) Kitchens R’01, Math Department, and Madelyn Kitchens

Frank Litz, Physical Education Department, and Anthony Litz

Tim Crissman, Dean of Students, and Charlie Baker (staged student being disciplined)

Frank Mullen R’79, Architecture Engineering Department, and Martin Guerrero-Zavala

Cassie McGill, English Department, and Clarice McGill

Tina Hayes, Advancement, and Colin Russell

Julie Gantner, Business Department, and Max Kriner

BEN GRIMES RECOGNIZED FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

Roncalli is proud to announce that physics teacher Ben Grimes was presented with the 2026 Charles Emmert Distinguished Service Award from the Indiana Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPTIndiana).

This award is named for Charles Emmert, a long-time member of the AAPT-Indiana. His service supported countless teachers of physics as well as their students in the state of Indiana for many years. The Charles Emmert Distinguished Service Award recognizes members of the physics teaching community in Indiana who have provided unique, substantial or significant contributions to physics teaching in throughout the state.

Grimes has been an active member of AAPTIndiana for many years, presenting numerous talks and demonstrations to the organization and serving as host of two Spring Meetings. As an executive officer from 2022–2025, he used his enthusiasm, organization and creative thinking to help the organization thrive while exploring new ways to connect with teachers. Grimes has also promoted the profession in many ways outside of AAPT-Indiana. Many educators know him for his expertise in Modeling Instruction, his eagerness to train fellow teachers in this method and for his service as an exam reader within the AP Physics community. His commitment to advancing the profession of physics teaching throughout Indiana is unwavering.

About this award, Grimes shared, “It has been a privilege and an honor to serve the Indiana physics teaching community over the past 15 years, beginning with leading my

first of many Modeling Mechanics workshops in 2011, heading the Physics Standards Revision team in 2015 and ultimately serving a leadership tenure with the Indiana chapter of the American Association of Physics Teachers between 2022 and 2025. I have been very blessed to have been able to both teach physics in the classroom and help other physics teachers through professional development, and I am looking forward to continuing to serve both our students and our teachers for years to come.”

“We are extremely proud of Mr. Grimes and grateful that he has received this recognition,” said principal Kevin Banich R’09. “In our community, we already know how effective he is as an educator, but this award is a testament to the broader community that he is truly an outstanding teacher. We are blessed to have him as a Royal.”

Ben Grimes and Charles Emmert

COLLINS RECEIVES KIWANIS AWARD

Senior Brayden Collins was named to the Kiwanis Circle of Valor at the 51st annual Abe Lincoln Awards on Friday, February 13. The program celebrates students who have overcome adversity while achieving success. Brayden was one of only 24 area high school seniors to receive the Kiwanis Club of Indianapolis Abe Lincoln Award.

The Abe Lincoln Scholarship Program was created in 1976 to recognize students who have overcome significant hardships and to provide financial assistance as they pursue their future goals. Kiwanis aims to guide young people by fostering a community that cares for, recognizes and encourages them.

Brayden was selected for this award in recognition of his courageous battle with leukemia, after being diagnosed in the summer of 2024 and his continued determination to succeed. He plans to attend Marian University this fall.

Joining Brayden and his family at the ceremony were several people he credits as key supporters throughout his journey. Among them was his first nurse, Amelia Herbert, who has been by his side since the beginning. “I have always

trusted her, and over time she has begun to feel more like an older sister than a nurse,” Brayden said. “She always pushed me to get up and move, made sure I was never nervous and knew how to make me laugh and feel comfortable in times of discomfort and stress. She is amazing.”

He also recognized Lori (Paul) Taylor R’99, the mother of one of his best friends, saying, “She has been there for me since day one and made countless sacrifices to make sure I am happy and cared for. She treats me as her own son, and I feel like part of her family.” Brayden also thanked classmate and close friend Charlie Dugan. “He always knows how to make me laugh, and he is someone I can be around 24/7 and never get bored. He and his family have done so much for me, and I am grateful for all of them.”

Angela Maly, school counselor at Roncalli, commented, “Brayden has faced his challenges with remarkable courage, leaning on his faith, the support of friends and family and the strength of his community. His resilience and positive spirit are truly inspiring and make him so deserving of this recognition.”

Senior Brayden Collins with (left to right) Lori (Paul) Taylor R’99, Amelia Herbert, senior Charlie Dugan, his father Steven Collins, school counselor Angela Maly and principal Kevin Banich R’09

RISING STARS

Four Roncalli High School juniors were named Rising Stars of Indiana for the class of 2027 by the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP). Tessa Mize, Thomas Nguyen, Claire Rittenhouse and Nora Wlodarczyk were selected for this honor based on their academic success in the classroom, selfless dedication to volunteer work and outstanding leadership qualities demonstrated through teams, clubs and organizations. In addition to receiving a certificate from the IASP, this achievement will be shared with colleges across Indiana.

“Congratulations to our outstanding juniors! Each of these students has worked diligently to meet a set of very high standards, both in and out of the classroom. We are thankful for their dedication and proud to have them as members of our Roncalli Class of 2027,” said Steven Freck, Roncalli High School college and career counselor.

The Roncalli speech team had another fantastic year. The small but mighty team had two participants qualify for the state speech meet at Penn High School on March 14. All qualifiers earned a spot in the top 42 in the state.

Senior Izzy Ahaus (Original Performance) and sophomore Rachel Giddens (Impromptu) competed. Izzy made it to the quarterfinals, ranking in the top 24 for Original Performance. Way to go, Izzy and Rachel!

Claire Rittenhouse, Thomas Nguyen, Tessa Mize and Nora Wlodarczyk

SPEECH TEAM

Rachel Giddens and Izzy Ahaus

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE PRO-LIFE YOUTH AWARD

Congratulations to senior Madilyn Wethington, who was awarded the Our Lady of Guadalupe Pro-Life Youth Award from the Archdiocese of Indianapolis!

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Pro-Life Youth Award recognizes a high school student who demonstrates leadership in promoting the sanctity of life through parish, school and community involvement in central and southern Indiana, focusing on Catholic values and service. Criteria involve active participation in pro-life efforts, leadership in upholding human dignity and dedication to Catholic teaching, often highlighted during Respect Life Month.

Madilyn was notified of her award in October, but it wasn’t until the second week of December that schedules permitted the presentation of the award at Roncalli during an all-school Mass.

MARCH FOR LIFE

In late January, nearly 100 Royals participated in the March for Life in downtown Indianapolis. IT IS GOOD THAT YOU EXIST!

Madilyn Wethington with her family

James Wethington and Lisa Zakrowski

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

On the last week of January, Indiana was hit with a lot of snow and a delay to the start of Catholic Schools Week (CSW). By Wednesday, Roncalli students and staff celebrated CSW with a number of activities. Throughout the week, students showed school spirit by participating in the themed dress-up days. Wednesday was Army vs. Barbie day, where everyone dressed in camo or Barbie attire. Thursday was sports team day and Friday was blue, white and red day with a pep assembly. Students did enjoy Catholic schools and pajama days on the Monday and Tuesday of the following week.

Roncalli spread some Catholic Schools Week cheer at the south deanery grade schools as well. Roncalli staff visited each grade school with buckets of snacks for their faculty and staff and temporary tattoos of Roncalli mascot Rowdie for the 4th through 8th grade students.

Pep Rally to end Catholic Schools Week

Blue, White & Red Day

Army vs. Barbie Day

Sports Team Day Pajama Day Sports Team Day

2026 DODGEBALL INVITATIONAL

The grand finale of Catholic Schools Week was the annual dodgeball tournament with six teams battling it out for the coveted dodgeball trophy and bragging rights for 2026. Each class selected representatives for their grade’s team, and there were two faculty/staff teams made up of brave volunteers.

The classes had matches against one another to determine the team that would advance to the winner’s bracket. The two faculty/staff teams played one another to determine which would compete against the winning student team. The junior class defeated the remaining faculty team to win the trophy during the championship game.

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL PRESENTATION

Winners (left to right):

Demi Goss, Morgan Curtis, Dominic Cromer, Sloane Pierle, Elliot Leffler, Ryder Douglas, Luke Roeder and Will Hegwood

At the beginning of the pep rally on Friday of Catholic Schools Week, Sergeant First Class Rios-Garcia and First Lieutenant Ryann Laky, from the Indiana National Guard, presented Roncalli High School with the official award of 2025 Indiana Purple Star School. This

designation honors Roncalli’s significant commitment to service members, veterans, students and families connected to our nation’s military.

Phil Anderson, Hon’19 (U.S. Army), Kevin Banich R’09, Sergeant First Class Rios-Garcia, First Lieutenant Ryann Laky, Kurt Cunningham R’17 (U.S. Marine Corps) and Frank Mullen R’79 (Army Corps of Engineers)

SHOW CHOIR 6X GRAND CHAMPIONS

Royal Rhapsody had an undefeated show choir season this year! After winning grand champion six times, sweeping many vocal and visual categories throughout and defeating schools in the small and large school divisions, they earned the Homeroom Showchoir title of Best Small School Show Choir in the State for the third year in a row. They ended their perfect season at the Indiana Show Choir Championship Competition, winning the grand champion title and following

captions: Best Show Design, Best Visuals, Best Costumes and Best Crew!

This year, Royal Rhapsody brought the magic of the Northern Lights to the stage, displaying a performance inspired by the beauty and wonder of the aurora. The show featured vocal soloists Jocelyn Garcia-Coronado, Isaiah Littell, Mira Pacholski, Will Stonecipher, Megan Trieste and dance soloist Ruby Schoettle.

Roncalli choral director Shannan Masten reflected, “This season has truly felt like chasing the Northern Lights - rare, breathtaking and unforgettable. Our incredible tech crew, performers, choir parents, volunteers and choreographers have all shone so brightly, going beyond in every way. More than ever, this group has glowed together with shared purpose and passion. I’m so proud of the artistry we created and the deep connections we formed through

this show. Special thanks go out to our dance captains Ruby Schoettle and Isaiah Littell, Dance Sophisticates, Jenny Randol R’86, Terri Madden, Hon’19, Beth Lupke, Tess Sanneman R’22, Tech Dads (especially Bryan Stonecipher and Ronnie Bajuyo), Alex Masten, Garrett Breeze, Kate Burns, and our incredible choreographers Marah Cover and Eric Hayes. It takes a village, and we are endlessly grateful for the support of our Roncalli family!”

THREE WEEKS, ONE COMMUNITY: RONCALLI WELCOMES ALUMNI HOME

Over three consecutive weeks in March, Roncalli welcomed alumni back to campus for Masses, luncheons and fellowship, celebrating generations of its community.

On March 4, Roncalli hosted the first Golden Guard alumni luncheon for graduates from Roncalli of 50 or more years. Welcomed by Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events Brandi Young and Vice President for Institutional Advancement Terese Carson, Hon. ’18, guests celebrated Mass with Fr. Tim Wyciskalla R’06, followed by a musical performance by the Royal Rhapsody Show Choir. Senior Reagan Turk, granddaughter of Sandy (Swartz) Clark R’70, shared her gratitude for attending Roncalli. The Golden Guard alumni concluded their visit with a catered luncheon and time to reconnect in the Bishop Chartrand Gymnasium.

On March 11, Roncalli welcomed back Bishop Chartrand High School alumni, with more than 40 guests representing the classes of 1966 through 1969. Young and Carson again greeted attendees, who celebrated Mass with retired priest Fr. Joe Rautenberg and enjoyed a performance by the Royal Rhapsody Show Choir. Junior Hailey

Engel, granddaughter of Carol (Kuhn) Keller C’67, spoke about her appreciation for her Roncalli experience. The Chartrand alumni continued the celebration in the Bishop Chartrand Gymnasium with lunch and fellowship. Janie (Pich) Killion C’66 shared, “What a wonderful day provided by the alumni director and advancement office at Roncalli. The Chartrand Rams gathered for a Mass in the lovely Sacred Heart Chapel, were treated to a beautiful program by the show choir, got a glimpse of what Roncalli means to the students and then a delicious luncheon. This mini reunion is a fantastic gift to bring us home to where all these friendships began!”

On March 18, Roncalli hosted alumni from Sacred Heart High School (1948-66) and Kennedy Memorial High School (1967-69), welcoming more than 130 guests who reunited with classmates and friends. Roncalli President Chuck Weisenbach R’79, Carson and Young invited guests into the chapel for Mass celebrated by Fr. Liam Hosty R’16, followed by a performance by the Royal Rhapsody Show Choir. Senior Sarah Hofmann, granddaughter of Carol (Lauck) K’69 and Ottie Hofmann K’69, spoke about what makes Roncalli special. The Sacred Heart and Kennedy alumni wrapped up their gathering with a catered meal and conversation in the Bishop Chartrand Gymnasium.

On February 11, we had a wonderful Parent Shadow Day at Roncalli, with one of the largest groups we have ever had for this fun morning! These future Royal parents joined us for Eucharistic Adoration, heard from school administrators, were given the student perspective from seniors Alex Maled and Reagan Turk

and visited classrooms to see our teachers in action. There is nothing like experiencing Roncalli firsthand!

If you are interested in coming in for a tour to see for yourself, please contact our director of admissions and marketing Allie Ross R’04 at aross@roncalli.org.

Principal Kevin Banich R’09

Senior Alex Maled

Katie (Groves) Hibner R’10

PARENT SHADOW DAY

Eucharistic Adoration

Kennedy Memorial Alumni

Sacred Heart Alumni

THANK YOU FOR BEING A LOYAL ROYAL!

It was grow time, and the Royals absolutely crushed it!

Thanks to the amazing generosity of the Roncalli community, this year’s Loyal Royal Day of Giving raised an incredible $51,183 from 408 enthusiastic donors! What a powerful show of support that’s blooming all across our community!

This year, we set our sights on creating a fantastic new green space. This new space will be the perfect spot for students to gather and rechargebringing fresh energy and joy to the school day!

The buzz of excitement throughout the day was contagious, and a little friendly competition made it all the more thrilling. A huge shout-out to the Class of 2028 for winning the first-ever Day of Giving class challenge! Our sophomores will enjoy donuts before

school, being the first to leave for lunch and the opportunity to throw water balloons at Mr. Banich. Every single gift is a vital part of our mission to form disciples of Jesus Christ while creating spaces for our students to grow in mind, body and spirit. On behalf of our students, families, faculty and alumni, we want to say a huge THANK YOU for helping Roncalli grow. Your generosity is already taking root and will flourish for years to come! If you want to learn more about supporting Roncalli through the Circle of Faith Fund, reach out to Terese Carson, vice president for institutional advancement, at (317) 787-8277 or tcarson@roncalli.org.

Royal concert musicians competed at the ISSMA band contest on Saturday, January 31. The musicians who earned a gold rating were freshman Anthony Wilczynski, trumpet; sophomore Rachel Giddens, percussion; sophomore Lorelei Roberts, trombone; junior Noel Eble, percussion; junior Thomas Mallers, percussion; junior Harrison Vodney, percussion; junior Jenna Stone, clarinet and senior Ellie Bishop, alto sax.

Congratulaitons to Bishop and Vodney, who competed at ISSMA State Solo & Ensemble in February. Ellie was awarded a Gold for her performance!

Ellie Bishop and Harrison Vodney

All Royal musicians that competed at ISSMA.

The Roncalli Performing Arts department presented this year’s spring play, "Radium Girls," on March 12, 13 and 14. The cast and crew brought to life a powerful true story of courage and resilience, showing that the fight for justice may be difficult, but it is worthwhile. Set in the 1920s, this compelling drama paid tribute to the young women whose health was sacrificed for profit, but whose voices will live forever.

A special thanks to the production team: Phil Anderson, Hon’19, Erin (Perkins) Bohn R’94 and Fran Davey, Hon'20, who helped make the production a success.

CHAMPIONS TOGETHER UNIFIED CHAMPION SCHOOL

Brian Avery, Director of Champions Together for the IHSAA, seniors Madelyn Kitchens, Suri Diaz, Will Spotts, Shiloh Diaz, Ava Shirley and Michelle Roberts, Hon’24, Director of Special Services at Roncalli

On Friday, February 20, Roncalli was officially recognized as a Champions Together Unified Champion School, a distinction that celebrates schools fostering inclusion and unity through athletics. The announcement came during the spirited senior vs. staff games assembly, where students and staff cheered as Roncalli received a commemorative banner from Brian Avery, the director of Champions Together.

This prestigious honor is awarded to schools that meet standards of excellence developed by leaders from Special Olympics and the education community. The program emphasizes collaborative fundraising, unified sports, whole-school engagement and inclusive youth leadership.

Roncalli earned the Champions Together designation by demonstrating excellence in four key areas:

• Inclusive Youth Leadership - Roncalli’s Athletic Leadership Council promotes student leadership opportunities that foster inclusion and advocacy.

• Whole-School Engagement - The school organizes activities that encourage awareness, respect and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Last year, students produced a video shown in homerooms to promote inclusion. This year, Roncalli furthered its commitment by hosting the Polar Plunge on campus to support its fundraising goals.

• Unified Sports - Roncalli offers inclusive sports programs that bring together students of all abilities, including track and field, bocce and bowling.

• Collaborative Fundraising - Schools must raise a minimum of $1,500 for Special Olympics to qualify. Roncalli has exceeded expectations, raising $5,600 so far this year.

This recognition highlights Roncalli’s ongoing dedication to building a school community where every student is valued, included and empowered to succeed.

Michelle Roberts, Hon’24, director of special services at Roncalli, said, “The Roncalli community is proud of the way our students have tackled the challenge to earn the Champions Together designation. Acceptance and inclusion align perfectly with our Catholic beliefs in human dignity and respect. Our faculty and staff see the pillars of Champions

Together exemplified in our classrooms, hallways and athletic fields every day.”

VISIT THE RHS SPIRIT STORE

OPEN DURING LUNCH PERIODS (11am-1pm M-F) UNIFORMS & SPIRIT WEAR SHOPPING FOR FALL, WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER - WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

(https://www.facebook.com/RHSspirit)

CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE STORE & FACEBOOK PAGE FOR NEW ITEMS DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR, OPEN DURING LUNCH PERIODS (11 AM-1 PM M-F).

Contact Julie Gantner, director of Roncalli’s spirit store, jgantner@roncalli.org

Order online or shop in store for all of your Graduation needs: announcements, signs, banners, decor and more!

ACT SUPER STARS

Roncalli is proud of following students who scored a 36, a perfect score, on the reading portion of the February ACT: seniors Nicole Azar, Cylie Henson and Lucia Hermann and juniors Dominic Cromer and Ben Levine.

The ACT, a nationally recognized college readiness exam, measures student achievement in English, math, reading, science and writing. The outstanding results of these Royals highlight their dedication, hard work and commitment to academic success.

Please join us in congratulating Roncalli’s latest ACT superstars on this exceptional achievement!

ARCHERY TEAM HEADING TO NATIONALS

The Roncalli archery team had a great state tournament over spring break. The team finished fifth overall and qualified for nationals. This is the best finish the team has ever had at state!

In girls 3D, sophomore Alexis Kabat earned a second-place finish. Her finish is the highest any Roncalli archer has ever achieved at state.

In boys individual 3D, freshman Trevor Welt had a fifth-place podium finish. In bullseye, the team had a nice score, placing 13 and qualifying for nationals.

Nicole Azar Dominic Cromer Ben Levine

Cylie Henson Lucia Hermann

Alexis Kabat and Trevor Welt

QUEST FOR EXCELLENCE

Over 200 South Deanery middle school students converged on Roncalli for the 40th annual Quest for Excellence competition on February28. Students competed in a number of categories including: art, dance, singing, instrumental, math, history, science, speech, spelling, current events, theology, physical fitness, geography, drama, essay writing and the super quiz team competition. St. Barnabas was the winner of this year’s super quiz, followed by St. Roch (second) and Central Catholic (third).

ROYAL BLOOD DRIVE SAVES LIVES

Every two-seconds, someone in the United States needs blood for surgeries, cancer treatments or injuries, so on Wednesday, February 25, the Roncalli Student Council held its annual blood drive event.

This year’s drive welcomed 75 donors, of whom 53 were first-time donors.

Royals donated 53 blood units and 11 double red cell units, which counted as two each. Every unit of blood donated has the potential to save three lives. That is 225 lives saved by the Roncalli community!

Super Quiz Teams: 1st Place St. Barnabas Catholic School, 2nd Place St. Roch Catholic School and 3rd Place Central Catholic School

Student council moderator Sarah Rose shared, “Our students had a great turn out at our blood drive once again this year! Their ability to continue to show up year after year always amazes me. While our firsttime donor number is always high, I always appreciate the students that are returning donors. They are the first ones to volunteer every year. I am so proud of them! We are looking forward to another successful drive next year!”

EXTRACURRICULAR SUMMER CAMPS

Registration for all camps will close on Friday, May 22, 2026. Sign-up to join us today at https://boostmyschool.com/roncalli-academic-summer-camps-2026. Contact Allie Ross R’04, director of admissions and marketing, at aross@roncalli.org with any questions.

Campus Ministry Summer Camp

*Grades indicate the grade that the student will be in for the 2026-2027 school year. The Great Roncalli Bake-Off

Day 1: God Made Me

“God made me, and God loves me!”; Welcome & Introductions; All About Me Freeze Dance: Music plays, kids dance (“Freeze like your favorite animal.”

“Freeze like you’re happy God made you.”); Praise & Worship Song; Bible Time: Psalm 139:13-14, Mirror to say “God made YOU”; Craft: God Made Me Portrait; Closing Prayer: “God made me, and God loves me”

Day 2: God Made The World

“God made the world and it is good!”; Prayer; Movement Game; Praise & Worship Song; Bible Time: Creation Story, God saw that it was GOOD; Nature Scavenger Hunt; Closing Prayer: “God made the world and it is good.”

Day 3: God Made Me to Care

“I can care because God cares.”; Prayer; Movement Game; Praise & Worship Song; Bible Time; Service Project; Closing Prayer

Day 4: God Made Me to Praise

“I can pray because God listens.”; Prayer; Movement Game; Praise & Worship Song; Bible Time; Kinds of Prayer; Closing Prayer

Instructor: Katie Hibner R’10, RHS Campus Minister

Dates: May 26-29

Time: 9:00-11:00 AM

Grades*: K-4 (Attendance Max: 20)

Cost: $60/camper

Mind Benders Math Camp

A fun, hands-on experience where students explore exciting math and logic puzzles through games, strategy challenges and creative problem-solving. During five interactive sessions, campers in grades 5-8 build confidence and sharpen their thinking by discovering patterns, cracking codes and solving clever puzzles together. This camp shows students that math is not just about answers—it’s about curiosity, teamwork and the thrill of solving intriguing challenges!

Instructor: Laura Armbruster, RHS math teacher

Dates: June 1-5

Time: 9:00-10:00 AM

Grades*: 5-8 (Attendance Max: 30 campers)

Cost: $60/camper

On your mark, get set, BAKE! Whoever thought that the Great British Baking Show would come to Roncalli High School? Campers will feel as if they are right on the set! During this camp, baker and entrepreneur Abigail Snyder will be working with the campers on how to work in teams, and we will spend time baking, decorating and plating. The 1st half of the week will focus on cookies and the 2nd half on cupcakes. Campers will be able to assemble, package, and bring home their sweet treats and new recipes each day to share with loved ones. Friday will culminate all that they have learned into one fun, final “bake-off” complete with guest judges! It is sure to be an amazingly sweet time! *Please note that this camp will mirror last year’s baking camp.*

Instructor: Abigail Snyder

Dates: June 8-12

Time: 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM for grades 6-8; Noon2:00 PM for grades 3-5

Grades*: 3-8 (Attendance Max: 28 campers per camp)

Cost: $100/camper

Bucket Beats: Bucket Drumming Camp

Get ready to turn ordinary buckets into extraordinary music! Bucket Beats is a high-energy, hands-on camp where students learn the exciting art of bucket drumming using drumsticks and simple plastic buckets. No prior musical experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to make some noise! On the last day before pick up, campers will showcase their new skills in an exciting live performance for family and friends.

Instructor: Lindsey Meyer, Assistant Roncalli Band Director and South Deanery Band Director

Dates: June 22-25

Time: 9:00-11:00 AM

Grades*: 5-8 (Attendance Max: 10 campers)

Cost: $60/camper

Paper Crafts Camp: Unleash Your Creativity!

Campers will learn how to make bright, cheerful paper flowers. They will choose from a variety of vibrant paper colors, then practice folding, cutting and gently shaping petals with safe scissors and glue sticks. Step-by-step instructions make it easy, and it helps with patience, creativity and fine motor skills. By the end of the activity, every child has a beautiful wreath

of handmade paper flowers to take home, along with a sense of pride in creating something beautiful with their own hands.

Instructor: Jane Weisenbach

Dates: June 22-26

Time: 11:00 AM-Noon

Grades*: 4th-8th (Attendance Max: 20 campers)

Cost: $60/camper

Build It Camp

Join us for a fun, hands-on camp! Each camper will build 2 projects: 1. Paracord jig and use them to make paracord bracelets/or to attach to any backpack or water bottle as a handle. 2. Catapult and test for distance and/or accuracy

Instructor: Holly Dexter (current Roncalli parent and employee at Deeply Ingrained: DeeplyIngrained.org)

Dates: July 6-9

Time: 10:00-11:00 AM

Grades*: 3rd-5th (Attendance Max: 20 campers)

Cost: $60/camper

Historical Analysis Camp

This camp will give students the chance to become "history detectives.” Through different forms of media, students will investigate the past, debate ideas and piece together where we get our history from! The camp balances learning with fun, teamwork and forms of entertainment students already enjoy to build historical thinking skills!

Instructor: Jack McGowan, Roncalli history teacher

Dates: July 13-17

Time: 9:00-10:00 AM

Grades*: 5th-8th (Attendance Max: 20 campers)

Cost: $60/camper

Great Roncalli Bake-Off: LEVEL UP!

On your mark, get set, bake..... AGAIN! Have you mastered the original Great Roncalli Bake-Off? Ready for more fun? This camp will build upon what we’ve learned in the previous camp for the next level of bakers. Baker and entrepreneur Abigail Snyder will be working with campers one-on-one to bake more treats and learn more skills. Friday will again culminate all that they learn into one fun, final “bake-off." It’s going to be great! **Must have completed one of Abigail’s baking camps at Roncalli at least one time before.**

Instructor: Abigail Snyder

Dates: July 13-17

Time: 9:00-11:00 AM

Grades*: 5th-8th (Attendance Max: 12 campers)

Cost: $100/camper

SUMMER ATHLETIC CAMPS

Roncalli High School will again offer athletic camps this summer for students currently in grades kindergarten through eighth. These camps are conducted by members of the Royal coaching staff and serve to provide fundamental instruction in each sport as well as a wonderful opportunity to have fun in a friendly, nurturing and safe environment.

CAMPS for BOYS

Baseball

Basketball

Football

Lacrosse

Soccer

Volleyball

CO-ED CAMPS

Bowling

Cheerleading

Distance Running Development

Golf

Speed Development

CAMPS for GIRLS

Basketball

Gymnastics

Lacrosse

Soccer

Softball

Volleyball

Registration began on March 1. We encourage you to please register on-line. We communicate camp updates via text and email, and your contact information is obtained via our on-line registration form. The cost for each camp is $65 per camper/ per session. Information and online registration is available on the Roncalli High School website: https://athletics.roncalli.org/summer-sports-camps/ or scan the QR code above.

Please note: Walk-up registration fee increases to $75 per camper

For more information, please call the athletic office at (317) 788-4094 or email Regan Getz, administrative assistant athletic department, at rgetz@roncalli.org.

2026 STATE

THE GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM MAKES SCHOOL HISTORY

History was made this season as the Roncalli girls basketball team advanced to the program’s first-ever state championship game, finishing an unforgettable run as state runners-up.

“The Lady Royals showed true grit and toughness,” said head coach Jason Sims. “It was a great moment for the entire Roncalli

community, as this team achieved something that has never been done before.”

The Lady Royals concluded their remarkable season with a 27–4 record, falling to Bellmont 55–46 in the state championship game.

Junior Elliot Leffler led the team with a gamehigh 22 points, earning Player of the Game

RUNNER-UP

honors. Senior Lydia Stahley contributed seven points and seven rebounds in a strong final performance.

The team’s signature “Toughness Belt” was awarded to Coach Sims in recognition of his leadership in guiding the program to new heights this season.

The Royals also celebrate and thank their senior players and senior managers—Brennah Cerny, Catie Rosko, Lydia Stahley, Reagan Turk, Hayden Bauman, Gracie Rossman and Olivia Scott—for their dedication and for helping make this historic season possible.

BOYS SWIMMING & DIVING

2026 REVIEW

Head Coach:

Curtis Cox R’07

Assistant Coaches:

Wendy McCoy

Lena Skeens

Noah Buening R’17

Circle City Conference Champions

The Roncalli boys swimming & diving team had a phenomenal season! The team brought home the Circle City Conference Championship for the sixth time in 10 years, and that was the most memorable moment for head coach Curtis Cox R’07, “Going in we thought it was going to be very close, but every swimmer swam great and moved up from the seeded position. The single race that sticks out was the teams 200 Free relay. It was a fairly close meet until that relay, and we seeded last. We decided to change the relay order before the meet and put our fastest two swimmers first and second to keep us in the race as long as we could. Senior Ben McGaha started us off with 24.48 seconds and was about even with the other team. Then freshman Lucas Stephon went second with a 23.33 to give us a very slight lead. Freshman Weiland Augustyniak was 3rd, and he ended up doing a 25.18 to keep us slightly in the lead. Finally, junior Joey McCoy anchored our relay with an amazing time of 22.96. It was his first time ever going under 23 seconds, and he pulled away to touch the wall first for the win! That gave us a big lead and all the momentum, which we

used to grow the lead in just about every event after that for the rest of the meet.”

A number of school records were broken, and many Royals found themselves crowned individual champions throughout the season. This earned many of the swimmers post-season accolades as well.

All-Conference & Conference Champions

Joey McCoy: 50 and 100 Free (Conference Champion in the 100 Free)

Ben McGaha: 100 Fly and 100 Back (Conference Champion in the 100 Fly)

Lucas Stephon: 200 IM and 100 Back (Conference Champion in the 100 Back)

Junior Axel Gardner: 200 Free and 500 Free

Sophomore AJ Duge: Diving

Weiland Augustyniak: 100 Breast

200 Medley Relay: Lucas Stephon, sophomore Espn Schacht, Ben McGaha and Joey McCoy

200 Free Relay: Ben McGaha, Lucas Stephon, Weiland Augustyniak and Joey McCoy

All-County

Ben McGaha: 100 Fly

All-Sectional

Lucas Stephon: 200 IM and 100 Back

Ben McGaha: 100 Fly

New School Records

Lucas Stephon

• Season Points: 450.00 points (Also a Freshman Record)

• Average Points Per Meet: 34.62 points

• Freshman 200 IM Record: 2:04.24

• Freshman 100 Back Record: 54.80

• Freshman 100 Breast Record: 1:04.84

Ben McGaha: Senior Points in a Season Record: 444.00 points

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

MVP: Ben McGaha

Mental Attitude Award: Espn Schacht

Leadership Award: Joey McCoy

Sportsmanship Award: Axel Gardner

This year’s Roncalli girls swimming & diving team far exceeded expectations! Because coaches knew the group was going to be smaller, and there were lots of spots to fill, they were ready for a rebuilding season. Head coach Curtis Cox R’07 said, “We finished pretty much where we expected at conference, but we were a lot closer to 2nd than we thought we would be. At sectionals, we went in with open minds and focused on what we were doing and improving individually. We were happy with our finish; we got two relays in the A finals, and our biggest surprise was our 3rd place finish in the medley relay.”

Because of the team’s success, many Royals found themselves with postseason accolades. Some school records were even broken!

All-Conference

Junior Clara Kazmierzak: 50 and 100

Free (Conference Champion in the 100 Free)

Junior Tessa Mize: 200 Free

Junior Mia Voris: 200 IM and 100

Breast

GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING 2026 REVIEW

Head Coach:

Curtis Cox R’07

Assistant Coaches:

Wendy McCoy

Lena Skeens

Noah Buening R’17

All-Sectional

Mia Voris: 100 Breast

Academic All-State

Ava Shirley

New School Records

Mia Voris

• Average Points per meet: 32.93

• Junior 100 Breaststroke Record: 1:09.72

• Season Points Junior Year Record: 461.00 points

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

MVP: Mia Voris

Mental Attitude Award: Sophomore

Lorelei Roberts

Leadership Award: Clara Kazmierzak

Sportsmanship Award: Ava Shirley

Senior Ava Shirley: Diving

Junior Monica Aello Lizarraga: 100 Back

Junior Mira Pacholski: 100 Back

BOYS BASKETBALL

2026 REVIEW

Head Varsity Coach:

Jamin Wernke R’02

Assistant Coaches:

Justin Agresta R’03

Kellen Schreiber R’18

Keith Cherry

Sectional Champions

Regional Champions

The Royals entered this season with championship aspirations, and they finally were able to achieve some goals that have been on their list for a few years. The team has been building towards this for a few years as a program, and it felt great!

Led by their five seniors, Luke Baker, Brayden “BC” Collins, Luke Feldman, Conner Kesler and Joe Taylor, this 18win, sectional & regional championship team was an entertaining one to watch.

Some season highlights included:

• Started the season 6-0 (including a win over 2025 4A State Champs, Jeffersonville and 2026 4A Regional Champ, Decatur Central)

• A road win at New Pal, after losing five straight to the Dragons over the last four years

• Advancing to the sectional finals for the third year in a row

• Winning three games and a sectional title by an average of 13 points

• Beating higher-ranked Northview in the regional 54-43

• 18 wins - highest win total since 20172018 season

• Joe Taylor set a school record for rebounds in a career with 535 rebounds

• Junior Will Hegwood set a school record for assists in a career with 300 assists, and he still has one more season to play

• Service Projects with Beggars for the Poor and Wishing Well

• Conner Kesler and Joe Taylor selected for the Circle City All-Conference Team

• Will Hegwood and Conner Kesler selected as Honorable Mentions on AllMarion County Team

• Joe Taylor selected as an All-Marion County 2nd Team.

• Joe Taylor selected to play in Marion County Senior All-Star Game

Senior leadership was at the forefront this season, and this group of boys will be missed by the program. Joe Taylor averaged 12 points and 7.5 rebounds per game while shooting 56% from the field, all while being really valuable defending the paint. Conner Kesler was the team’s leading scorer both his junior year and his senior year. He averaged 14 points per game and grew into a real leader for the Royals, and he was willing to do anything it took to win the game. Conner hit 93 three-pointers over his last two seasons and will certainly be missed. Luke Feldman led the team with 57 made threes this season, while shooting them at 43%. He was way more than just a shooter for the Royals, but his game winning three at New Pal will be remembered for a very long time! He will go down as one of our most efficient scorers in school history. Luke Baker grew into a super valuable part of our team. He was our starting four man, who was our second-leading rebounder, second in assists, and he usually guarded the opponents best player. “Bake’s” energy and spirit will be greatly missed! Brayden Collins provided everyday leadership with his approach and encouraging, helping voice. The ‘Best Teammate’ award-winner was always ready when his name was called, and he had a huge three pointer against Perry Meridian that nobody in the gym will ever forget. BC will always be a huge part of our program as he made the players, coaches and all those around him better humans. His fight and recovery from leukemia was inspiring for all.

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

Co-MVPs: Joe Taylor and Will Hegwood Mental Attitude Award: Brayden Collins

Leadership Award: Conner Kesler

Sportsmanship Award: Luke Feldman

It was a historic season for our girls basketball team! The Royals took down some tough competition on their way to appearing in the first state championship ever for girls basketball. Roncalli controlled the sectional tournament from start to finish, winning each game by nearly 30 points. In the first round of sectionals, the Royals defeated Beech Grove 70-35, which advanced them to the sectional semi-final, where they took down the New Palestine Dragons 5316. The Royals secured the sectional championship with a decisive 67–38 victory over the Indian Creek Braves. The Royals defeated the Cathedral Irish in a nail-biting matchup, 52-50, in the regional championship. They then had a dominant performance over Northview in the first round of semi-state, defeating them 58-40. Their 50-47 win over Jennings County secured their spot at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for state!

This 2025-26 Royal team now holds the school record for most consecutive wins in a season with 17 and total wins in a season with 27. Junior Elliot Leffler also broke the record for most field goals in a season with 190. On top of all the records being broken, the Royals were Circle City Conference Champions, Sectional, Regional and Semi-State Champions, Marion County

Runners-Up and State Runners-Up. We’d say that is a season to be proud of!

On top of all the team success, a number of players earned many individual recognitions. Leffler, along with seniors Brennah Cerny and Catie Rosko, was named All-Circle City Conference. Leffler was also named 1st Team All-County, All-State and an IBCA All-Star, and she made the IGCSA 1st Team All-State. Cerny and Rosko were named IBCA AllState Honorable Mention, with Cerny also earning All-County Honorable Mention recognition and IGCSA Honorable Mention All-State. Rosko was invited to the Hoosier Basketball Magazine Top 60 Invitational. All welldeserved honors!

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

MVP: Elliot Leffler

Mental Attitude and Sportsmanship Awards: Senior Reagan Turk

Leadership Award: Brennah Cerny

GIRLS BASKETBALL 2026

REVIEW

Head Varsity Coach: Jason Sims

Assistant Varsity Coach:

Keegan McCarthy R’13

Scot Rosko

Max Clifford R’15

Erin Leppert R’13

Sofie Carr R’21

Circle City Conference Champions

Marion County Runner-Up

Sectional Champions

Regional Champions

Semi-State Champions

State Runner-Up

BOYS BOWLING 2026

REVIEW

Head Coach: John Bauerle Jr.

Assistant Coach:

Nikki (Battiato) Bauerle R’98

The Royal Boys wrapped up their 20252026 season with a 5-5 record, similar to their 2024-2025 performance. The team welcomed several newcomers, and they all showed great improvement

throughout the season. Sophomore Nathan Bastin was named to the Indy South All-Conference Team after his outstanding performances throughout the season. Seniors Andrew Woodruff, Emmett Burkhardt, Ethan Lentz and Sam Matney all earned Academic AllState honors, which recognized their achievements on the lanes and in the classroom. The Royals look forward to returning to the lanes next season to continue their progress.

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals: MVP: Nathan Bastin

Mental Attitude Award: Emmett Burkhardt

Leadership Award: Andrew Woodruff

Sportsmanship Award: Ethan Lentz

The Lady Royals were on a mission to return to the state finals for their third consecutive season, and they did it! Not only did they make their way to state, but the team won the school’s first-ever regional championship in girls bowling.

Throughout the season, every bowler made significant strides, with several standout performances. Seniors Alison Holden, Rayna Patel and Alysa Neibert all earned spots on the Indy South All-Conference Team, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the program; a well-deserved honor. Several bowlers earned Academic All-State honors, highlighting their excellence both on the lanes and in the classroom. This included seniors Holden, Neibert, Sarah Hofmann, Lauren Candler, Claire Meinerding and Madi Wethington.

Adding to the team’s success, Holden delivered an outstanding performance in individual competition, advancing all

the way to the state finals and finishing with an impressive 6th-place finish. Her accomplishment not only showcased her talent and determination on the biggest stage but also set a new standard for the program, earning the highest individual girls’ finish in school history!

It was a season of growth, achievement and well-earned accomplishments for the Lady Royals.

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

MVP & Leadership Award: Alison Holden

Mental Attitude Award: Lauren Candler

Sportsmanship Award: Sarah Hofmann

GIRLS BOWLING 2026

REVIEW

Head Coach: Nikki (Battiato) Bauerle R’98

Assistant Coach: John Bauerle

Girls Team

- Indy South Conference

Champions

- Sectional Runner-Up

- Regional Champions

- 3rd Place Semi-State

- 7th Place State

Alison Holden

- 4th Place Sectionals

- 3rd Place Regionals

- 4th Place Semi-State

- 6th Place State

WRESTLING 2026 REVIEW

Head Coach:

Shaun Richardson

Assistant Coaches:

Shawn Slaymon

Ridge Cavallero

Cayden Whitaker

Jonah Odum

Noah Warren

Team

Circle City Conference Champions

Sectional Champions

2nd Place at Regional

3rd at Semi-State

1st at Sectionals

Blake Getz

Jackson McCurdy

Andrew McHugh

MJ Morton

Caleb Morrow

Gavyn Kemp

Carter Sanford

1st at Regionals

Blake Getz

Jackson McCurdy

Peyton Schoettle

Caleb Morrow

Carter Sanford

1st at Semi-State

Blake Getz Champion

Five State Qualifiers

Peyton Schoettle 4th Place

Blake Getz 7th Place

Caleb Morrow 7th Place

Jackson McCurdy

Carter Sanford

It was another stellar season for Roncalli’s wrestling program! They finished the season 17-4, and with 10 wrestlers returning with varsity experience, the Royals knew they were in for another strong postseason. The season began with some inconsistent results, though. Dual wins over Indian Creek and Lawrence North at home sandwiched a tough loss to #3 Bloomington South. The Royals continued to push themselves, and they won the Marion County tournament for the second year in a row and third in school history. The team had five county champs, with seven in the finals. They continued the climb, placing 3rd at the Mater Dei Classic just three points behind nationally-ranked Union County.

After winning their tenth-straight Circle City Conference Championship, the Royals continued to roll in the postseason. They brought home the sectional championship, came in second at regionals, and the team placed third in semi-state. Their individual titles were impressive once again with the following wrestlers finding themselves at the top of the podium for the Royals at some point throughout the season. AllCircle City Conference Honors: Seniors Blake Getz, Jackson McCurdy, MJ Morton and Peyton Schoettle, juniors Caleb Morrow and Jack Richardson

Marion County Champions: Getz (only the seventh wrestler in Marion County history to earn four county titles), McCurdy, Schoettle, Morrow and sophomore Carter Sanford

Sectional Champions: Getz, McCurdy, senior Andrew McHugh, Morton, Morrow and sophomore Gavyn Kemp and Sanford

Regional Champions: Getz, McCurdy, Schoettle, Morrow and Sanford

Semi-State Champions: Getz (3x champion)

State Results: Getz (7th), Morrow (7th), Morton (qualified), Richardson (qualified) and Schoettle (4th)

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals: MVP: Blake Getz

Mental Attitude Award: Caleb Morrow

Leadership Award: Peyton Schoettle

Sportsmanship Award: Jack Richardson

This season was an important step forward for the Roncalli girls wrestling program. The program had solid growth with five new wrestlers joining the program. Seniors Claire May and Olivia Lemus brought a lot of experience, and their work ethic, toughness and willingness to help the younger wrestlers learn the sport made a huge difference for the team. When a program is being built, leadership from the experienced veterans adds up.

These two seniors accomplished quite a lot during their final season as Royal wrestlers. May was a sectional champion and placed 5th at state. She also earned All-County, All-State and Academic AllState honors. Lemus was also a sectional champion, and she qualified for state. She joined May in being recognized as All-County and Academic All-State.

The program’s five new wrestlers included freshman Piper Jackson, sophomores Alayna Garnica, Kiera Conlin and Abby McNeil and junior Annabelle Rose. Girls stepping into the sport of wrestling has to be one of the toughest things mentally and physically they could do. Wrestling isn’t easy, especially when you’re new to it, but this group continued to show up and wrestle hard every week. They gained valuable mat time and experience that will pay off moving forward.

Coach Shawn Slaymon said, “I’m proud of the way this team competed and supported each other all year. Starting the season with five girls knowing nothing about wrestling, to growing into a team and always being there for each other is what made this season fun.”

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

MVP & Leadership Award: Claire May

Mental Attitude Award: Annabelle Rose

Sportsmanship Award: Olivia Lemus

GIRLS WRESTLING 2026 REVIEW

Head Coach: Shawn Slaymon

At Sectionals

Claire May Champion

Olivia Lemus Champion

Three Regional Qualifiers

Claire May 3rd Place

Olivia Lemus 3rd Place

Abby McNeil

Two State Qualifiers

Claire May 5th Place

Olivia Lemus

GYMNASTICS

2026 REVIEW

Head Coach:

Kelly Gridley

Assistant Coach:

Lauren Hall

Lexy Mercuri R’17

3rd Place at Sectionals

Three State Qualifiers

Claire May

Elaina Shutta

Katie Vokes

The gymnastics team began the season with returning state qualifier, junior Emiko Vecchio, leading the way. Sophomore Grace Toth and freshman Katie Vokes were newcomers to the program, but they brought excitement from the start. The primary goal all season was for the entire team to make it to state. The Royals once again placed 3rd at sectionals, advancing them to regionals, where they fell in advancing as a team, but three gymnasts advanced to state on various individual events. This was the most state qualifiers in 13 seasons!

The lone senior, Claire May, had her first state appearance on bars, and she had a phenomenal season. Vokes advanced in both beam and floor, and sophomore Elaina Shutta advanced in her strongest event, beam. There is a reason she was called “the beam queen”! Coach Gridley shared, “My proudest moment of the season was when an athlete gave up her spot on floor at the last-minute due to illness, which ultimately led to Katie advancing

to state on floor. The team mentality of this program is something really special.” The Royals look forward to the off-season and returning next season more motivated than ever!

End-of-season Roncalli awards went to the following Royals:

MVP: Claire May

Mental Attitude Award: Katie Vokes

Leadership Award: Junior Lucy Perry

Sportsmanship Award: Grace Toth

ATHLETES TO COMPETE COLLEGIATELY

Faith Schoettle, Indiana University Columbus, Women’s Volleyball

Peyton Schoettle, Indiana University, Wrestling

Grace Troxell, University of Louisiana Monroe, Women’s Volleyball

SUPPORT RONCALLI THROUGH YOUR IRA DISTRIBUTION

Terese Carson, Hon’18, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Do you own an IRA? Are you 70 ½ or older? Maximize your giving impact on our school and students while earning personal tax benefits at the same time! Consider supporting Roncalli High School through an IRA qualified charitable distribution (QCD) gift.

For those eligible, this is often the most tax-advantageous way to charitably give each year, even if you don’t itemize:

Tax-free giving: Directly from your IRA to Roncalli High School (up to $111,000/yr)

Count towards RMD: For those 73 years and older, satisfy all/some of your annual RMD (required minimum distribution)

Lower taxable income: QCDs are not counted as income, like regular RMDs

Plan your giving: Give annually, all at once or strategically through the year

Please consult your IRA custodian for any specific forms or steps they may require to donate to Roncalli. Please contact Terese Carson, vice president for institutional advancement at (317) 788-4098 or tcarson@roncalli.org for more information.

ROYAL REASONS

When Alumni Come Home to Coach the Next Generation

Brandi Young, Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events

On any given afternoon, if you step into the gym, walk along the sidelines or stop by a practice after school, you will see something remarkable.

You will see yesterday’s students leading today’s Royals.

One of the greatest gifts of serving as alumni director is witnessing the many ways our graduates return to Roncalli. Some come back for reunions. Some return as parents. Others visit as guest speakers. And many, in a powerful and visible way, come back to coach.

Today, 61 of our current coaches are Roncalli alumni.

That number speaks volumes. These men and women once wore the jerseys, ran the drills and sat in the locker rooms before big games. They were formed here, not only as athletes but as young people of faith, character and resilience. Now they stand in those same spaces, whistle in hand, helping shape the next generation.

When I ask alumni why they come back, their answers are strikingly similar.

They return because someone once believed in them.

They return because a coach taught them more than strategy. They learned discipline, teamwork and integrity.

They return because Roncalli was more than a school. It was a place that shaped who they became.

And they want today’s students to experience the same sense of support, challenge and belonging. There is something special about watching a former athlete lead drills on the same field where they once practiced. They understand the expectations. They understand the culture. They understand the heart behind what we do. They carry it forward with intention.

Athletics at Roncalli has always been about more than wins and losses. It is about formation. It is about teaching young people how to respond to adversity, how to celebrate others’ success, how to lead with humility and how to compete with honor. Our alumni coaches know this because they lived it.

The spirit of returning extends beyond athletics. Alumni serve as mentors, volunteers, board members and loyal supporters. They speak in classrooms, attend events and entrust us with their own children. The connection does not end at graduation. It grows deeper over time.

When alumni return, it reminds us that Roncalli is not simply a place people attend. It is a place they belong.

Spring is a season of growth. Seeds planted years ago continue to bear fruit in ways we may not have imagined. The lessons learned in classrooms, on courts and in the chapel echo forward. Sometimes, those lessons lead our graduates right back to campus.

To our 60 alumni coaches and to every graduate who has found a way to come home, thank you. Thank you for investing your time, talent and heart in our students. Thank you for carrying forward the mission that once shaped you.

The true measure of a school is not only where its graduates go. It is how many feel called to return.

Once a Royal, Rebel, Ram or Spartan, always ONE community.

BASKETBALL - BOYS

VHC: Jamin Wernke R’02

Varsity Asst: Justin Agresta R’03

Varsity Asst: Kellen Schreiber R’18

JV Asst: Justin Wernke R’06

Freshman HC: Drew Fleming R’18

Assistant: Rob Kratoska R’85

CYO: Jack Hegwood R’18

CYO: Reese McGinsie R’18

CYO: Danny Asher R’20

CYO: Brandon Dillon R’16

BASKETBALL - GIRLS

JV HC: Keegan McCarthy R’13

Asst: Max Clifford R’15

Asst: Erin Leppert R’13

Asst: Sofie Carr R’21

BOWLING - GIRLS

HC: Nikki Bauerle R’98

CHEERLEADING

HVC: Jessica Engel R’99

Varsity Asst: Megan Ruth R’18

Freshmen HC: Sarah Ervin R’99

CROSS COUNTRY - BOYS

Asst: Daniel Buergler R’13

Asst: Logan Wong R’20

CROSS COUNTRY - GIRLS

HVC: Cathy Kitchens R’01

FOOTBALL

VHC: Sam Otley R’11

Varsity Asst: Chris Belch R’85

Varsity Asst: Brian Lauck R’95

Varsity Asst: Kellen Schreiber R’18

Varsity Asst: Will Kiesel R’11

Varsity Asst: Jake Eagan R’11

Varsity Asst: Sam Sedgwick R’18

Varsity Asst: Justin Hornek R’16

Asst Mgr: Emily Hornek R’23

Freshmen HC: Dean Stahley R’02

Freshmen Asst: Alan English R’08

Freshmen Asst: David English R’04

Freshmen Asst: Matt Evans R’93

GOLF - GIRLS

HC: Sophia Egold R’18

Asst: Annie Sullivan R’18

GYMNASTICS

Asst: Lexy Mercuri R’17

LACROSSE - BOYS

Asst: Austin Lowery R’15

Asst: Joseph Madden R’20

LACROSSE - GIRLS

Asst: Lylian Iman R’22

Asst: Julia Gorski R’20

SOCCER - BOYS

Varsity Asst: Omar Khairy R’01

SOFTBALL

HVC: David Lauck R’94

Asst: Mallory Marsicek R’16

Asst: Alyssa Schoettle R’14

Asst: Lauren Dill R’18

SWIMMING & DIVING - BOYS & GIRLS

VHC: Curtis Cox R’07

Varsity Asst: Noah Buening R’17

TENNIS - BOYS & GIRLS

Varsity Asst: Lindsay Perry R’04

TRACK & FIELD - BOYS

Asst: Kurt Cunningham R’17

Asst: Kyle Lockard R’22

Asst: Matthew Ajamie R’15

Asst: Will Schott R’12

TRACK & FIELD - GIRLS

HC: Royce Antolin R’89

Asst: Cathy Kitchens R’01

Asst: Kevin Klaiber R’75

VOLLEYBALL - BOYS

HC: Nick Jennings R’11

Asst: Will Buechler R’22

Asst: Jane Jennings R’83

Asst: Andrew Gallagher R’23

VOLLEYBALL - GIRLS

HVC: Christina Erazmus R’01

Freshman HC: Desirae Spearing R’98

Roncalli Active Alumni Coaches

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS

Erin Moran Maurer Named to 2026 Women’s Silver Anniversary Team

Roncalli is proud to celebrate Erin Moran Maurer R’01, who has been named to the 2026 Women’s Silver Anniversary Team. She will be honored April 25, 2026, as part of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame recognition of the top players from the high school graduating class of 2001.

The Silver Anniversary Team highlights standout players from 25 years ago. This year’s honorees represent the very best of Indiana’s class of 2001, including 11 members of the 2001 Indiana All-Star team and several other All-State caliber athletes. Erin’s selection places her among elite company and affirms what the Roncalli community has long known about her talent, work ethic and impact on the game.

During her time at Roncalli, Erin established herself as one of the premier scorers in program history. The 5-foot-9 forward made an immediate impact as a freshman, averaging 13.9 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. She continued to elevate her play each season, averaging 16.8 points as both a sophomore and junior before closing her career with an outstanding senior campaign of 18.7 points per game while shooting an impressive .895 from the free-throw line.

Her accolades at Roncalli were numerous. She earned 2001 AP high honorable mention AllState honors, was named all-City Tournament in 1999, and was a two-time first-team AllMarion County and All-City selection by the Marion County Coaches of Girls Sports Association. She was also a two-time team MVP and competed in the 2001 North/South Indiana All-Star Classic. One of her most memorable performances came Dec. 22, 2000, when she poured in a careerhigh 31 points against Mishawaka Marian.

Erin’s success continued at the University of Indianapolis, where she built one of the most decorated careers in

Greyhounds history. She finished her collegiate career with 1,740 points, which ranks third alltime at UIndy, along with 417 rebounds, 223 assists, 117 steals and a school-record 226 threepointers. She appeared in a school-record 121 games over four seasons, helping lead her teams to an 89-33 record, three NCAA Division II national tournament appearances and the 2003 Great Lakes Valley Conference regular-season and tournament titles.

A consistent and versatile contributor, Erin averaged double figures in scoring all four years and capped her college career with a senior season of 15.7 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. She scored a career-high 36 points against Oakland City in 2004, knocking down a schoolrecord eight three-pointers in the game. She also holds the UIndy single-season record for threepoint accuracy at .515 and ranks among the program’s leaders in multiple career categories.

Her achievements have been recognized at the collegiate level as well. Erin was part of the 2002-03 UIndy team inducted into the UIndy Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016 and was inducted individually in 2018.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in business administration from UIndy in 2005, Erin returned to Roncalli to serve as an assistant basketball coach from 2006 to 2008 and worked as an administrative assistant through 2009. Since 2009, she has served as assistant director of Making Memories Daycare and Preschool in Indianapolis.

Today, Erin and her husband, Gary, are proud parents to three children, Caleb, Hunter and Maddux.

Erin’s selection to the Silver Anniversary Team is a fitting tribute to a career defined by excellence, dedication and leadership. Her legacy at Roncalli and beyond continues to inspire the next generation of Royals.

Congratulations, Erin, on this well-deserved honor.

Dear Roncalli - Alumni Edition

Dear Roncalli,

Roncalli has been the pillar of private Catholic education on the south side for years. This is one of the main reasons my father sent my six siblings and me to this school. Centered in Christ and the virtues of St. John XXIII, Roncalli has been able to change the lives of countless individuals - helping young people find their place in this world and achieve the goals they set. My experience at Roncalli inspired me to return after graduation to become a coach and help carry on this legacy and tradition.

For some people, it may be hard to understand the financial burden that sending seven children to private school can create for a family. However, my siblings and I were fortunate to attend Roncalli thanks to its tuition assistance program. Through the Circle of Faith Fund, families like mine have a better chance of sending their children to such an excellent school. Your support not only helps families in need of tuition assistance but also provides the school with funds for teacher training, maintenance cost, repairs and any unforeseen events.

I kindly ask for your support in giving the assistance this school needs so it can continue to transform the lives of the students.

God

Bless,

Joseph Madden R’20

Dear Roncalli,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to ask for your support for Roncalli High School, which is dedicated to providing a quality education to students and fostering an environment where they can thrive academically, spiritually and personally.

They are currently seeking assistance with funding for their academic programs, including technology, as well as their athletic and artistic programs. Your support would help expand these programs and provide resources to students in need.

Any contribution, whether financial, in-kind or volunteer support, would benefit the school community. I would be grateful for your assistance and partnership in helping the students achieve their full potential.

Thank you for your time and your support. God bless.

Sincerely, Anthony

Stallings R'17

Our alumni community is now more than 15,300 strong, and we continue to grow together. Whether it’s a career milestone, a personal achievement or a life-changing event, we want to celebrate your story with fellow Royals, Rebels, Rams and Spartans.

Emily (Brassie) R’10 and Jacob Austin R’10 met in 2018 working at FedEx. They married October 10, 2020 at Nativity Of Our Lord Jesus Christ Catholic Church. They have four children, daughter Taylor and sons Benjamin, Samuel and Gabriel. Benjamin and Samuel are twins.

CLASS NOTES

News from Alumni

Dan Rojas R’12, a principal in the Indianapolis office of Cerity Partners, has been honored as an Indy's Best & Brightest Finalist in Banking & Financial Services. He advises families and individuals on financial planning and investment management, with a focus on tax and estate planning.

Brittany (Kehoe) R’12 and Justin Moran welcomed their newest addition to their growing family. Grayson Michael Francis was born on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 5:40 PM weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces and 19 1/4 inches long.

The Roncalli Life Academy alumni gathered over the Christmas holiday at Expo Bowl, catching up with one another and enjoying some Christmas fun. Alumni in attendance were Hunter Bartley R’12, James Bruhn R’15, Jake Emery R’17, Ned Halberstadt R’10, Phillip Hanley R’20, Elizabeth Layer R’16, Reynold Robinette, Ivan Smith R’18, Charlie Springman R’13 and Katie Strange R’17.

Amanda Ruth-Thompson R’14 married Jack Thompson on August 15, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and celebrating vows again on August 16, 2026, at Newfields Art Museum. The wedding party included Megan Ruth R’18 and Cat McCloskey R’14.

Michaela (Strykowski) R’15 and Nick Broering R’15 were married on September 27, 2025. Roncalli alumni in the wedding party included: father of the bride, former Roncalli football coach ’13-’19, Steven Strykowski, maid of honor, Madysen Strykowski R’16, bridesmaid Kara (Broering) Anton R’08 and groomsmen Merrick Strykowski R’18, Bryce Popa R’15 and Jon Wright R’15.

Emma (Lawrie) R’15 and Jordan Goldenberg welcomed twin boys, Oliver and Wesley on December 16, 2025.

CLASS NOTES

Sabrina (Cobb) Hornek R’16 is currently a firefighter at the Madison Township Fire Station near Camby, Indiana. She was just featured on the news for a project she runs called “Project Snuggles.” It is a program where they make blankets to give out to children when they are taken in an ambulance. Scan QR code to read more about it in this news article.

Emma Harmon R’18 and Ethan Newett R’18 were married on October 25, 2025 at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Indianapolis. Roncalli alumni in the wedding included Elaina Harmon R’21, Tyler Newett R’20, Ainsley Newett R’22, Casey Newett R’25, Riley (Prewitt) Newett R’20, Kailey Washel R’13, Nicole Clifford R’18, Lauren Liberto R’18, Gabrielle (Viduya) Ramos R’18, Nick Ramos R’18, Luke Hanley R’18, Andrew Shelby R’18, Cade Morgan R’18, Ryan Papandria R’21, Aidan Newett R’20, Brady Newett R’22, Colin Newett R’22 and Leo Da Silva R’22.

Molly (Mullen) R’19 and Dominic Clouse R’18 were married at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church on November 29, 2025. The wedding party included Roncalli alumni: Drew Clouse R’21, Dane Clouse R’25, Luke Dill R’19, Jacob Luedeman R’18, Anna Maddox R’21, Tommy Mullin R’20, Kasey O’Connor R’19 and Jillian Stafford R’19. Molly is a nurse at Riley Children’s Hospital in the NICU, and Dom manages a diesel mechanic shop.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR:

Vincenzzo Mina R’22, a civil engineering senior in Marian University’s E.S. Witchger School of Engineering, made program history by becoming the first civil engineering student at Witchger to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Following graduation in May, Mina will relocate to Charleston, South Carolina, where he will begin his career as a Land Development Engineer, designing projects across the city and surrounding communities.

1976 Baseball Championship Reunion & Recognition - Friday, May 1, 7:30 PM

Come celebrate with us as we honor the team ahead of the first pitch. Class of 1976 Golden Guard Induction - Saturday, May 23, 7:30 AM

UPDATE YOUR ALUMNI RECORD

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Are you looking for help planning a reunion? Contact Brandi Young, director of alumni relations, at 317-787-8277 ext. 242 or online at byoung@roncalli.org.

THE FRUITS OF PILGRIMAGE

Katie (Groves) Hibner R’10, Director of Campus Ministry

It’s true what they say about pilgrimage: it bears fruit long after you leave. There’s no way I would have known before going on pilgrimage to Rome in April of 2025 that it would make such a lasting impact on my faith and, in turn, my work. I have the pilgrimage to thank for a renewed love of the saints and intercessory prayer, which is where this story leads.

Being able to experience prayer, visits to holy sites and the funeral of Pope Francis alongside students and coworkers last year was such a gift, a gift that led me to think about how pilgrimage is not something we currently offer to our students, or at least not in any regular capacity. I had such a profound experience that it made me think: how can I bring this pilgrimage experience to our students? Thank goodness for the intercessory prayer of the saints and a school administration that understands the

importance of pilgrimage and experiential faith, oh, and shoutout to Indiana for being the resting place of a legendary saint: Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. Our sophomore pilgrimage this year was a pilgrimage to the Sisters of Providence, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Providence and the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin in Terre Haute, Indiana. Students were divided into groups to do four tours. Outdoors, students toured the cemetery of the sisters, the house where St. Mother Theodore Guerin first lived, the log cabin where she attended Mass when she arrived in Indiana from France and a grotto modeled after Lourdes. Transitioning inside, they were able to pray for their family at the shrine of Our Lady of Providence, known as the “Queen of the Home,” tour the Church of the Immaculate Conception, pray in the Sisters’ Blessed Sacrament Chapel and pray at the shrine of St. Mother Theodore Guerin, view relics and pray at her tomb.

It truly was a beautiful experience from start to finish! I am so grateful to the staff at the Sisters of Providence for welcoming us with open arms, the students who responded so well to this (so much so that we may have to add another day next year!) and for our sophomore retreat team who fearlessly piloted taking 100+ sophomores on pilgrimage with me: Ellie Haydock, Jamin Wernke R’02 and Laura (McHugh) Trumble R’08

I firmly believe that we have a responsibility as a Catholic high school to form both our students’ minds and hearts in faith. They are going to be taught solid Catholic Theology to form the mind by our incredible Theology department, and my role in Campus Ministry is to make sure they get to practice that faith to form their heart. This pilgrimage is just one of the ways we were able to help students form their hearts in faith this year. Please join me in praying for the intercession of St. Mother Theodore Guerin and that her life, dedicated to education, will continue to inspire our students here at Roncalli!

"The sophomore pilgrimage helped me understand God and myself better. I believe pilgrimages are a great way to grow as a child of God."Sophomore Chris Jerry

"The sophomore pilgrimage provided an experience to follow in the footsteps of a real saint who lived in Indiana and made our faith and sainthood feel more real and possible. I loved the shell chapel because it shows the dedication of the sisters who lived there. Pilgrimage gives us an opportunity to take a step away from the world and focus on God." - Sophomore Ava Stone

The thing that struck me most about the sophomore retreat day was how each student found something to resonate with, since we had multiple things going on during the retreat. Adoration, looking at relics, reflecting in a cemetery and learning about the life impact of a real saint gave multiple avenues to connect. Pilgrimage can help shape the faith life for a high school student because it's typical to go see something that has a cool story connected to it. Intentionally going somewhere and experiencing curiosity to learn what a cool/inspiring story is all about can permit a high schooler to do more of that on their own in smaller ways. It's also always easy to relate the "journey" of a pilgrimage with the journey of life with God. - Ellie Haydock, Math Teacher

THE LAST WORD

The Cafeteria and Kitchen Tables

Kevin Banich R’09, Principal

High school is one of the most formative periods in a young person’s life. During that time, a child learns to drive, goes on their first date, works their first job and begins to discern a path after graduation. By the time students walk across the stage at commencement, they are eligible to vote, enlist in the military and are considered adults in the eyes of the law.

A child enters high school as a wide-eyed freshman and leaves ready to take on the world as a young adult. There is no denying the significance of high school and the lasting impact it can make. Certainly, what happens at our cafeteria table is important, but your kitchen table matters more.

That truth is not new. In 1990, First Lady Barbara Bush said, “Our success as a nation… depends not on what happens inside the White House, but on what happens inside your house.” Her words ring true not only for our nation but also for our communities. The strength of any organization or institution starts with the strength of a family. Our Roncalli family is only as strong as each of our individual families.

In education, there is a legal phrase called in loco parentis. This Latin phrase means “in the place of a parent.” It is important to notice what the phrase does and does not say. It does not mean “replacing the parent.” It recognizes that educators are a critical part of a child’s growth and development. However, it stops short of suggesting that an educator can substitute for a parent. Even our legal system acknowledges that schools can support, guide and reinforce, but they cannot replace the home. The home is the first and primary school, and parents are the first and primary teachers.

As Catholics, this teaching is reinforced in the documents of the Second Vatican Council, convened by our namesake, Pope John XXIII. In Lumen Gentium §11, written by Pope Paul VI, the Church calls the family the “domestic church” and teaches that the home is the first place of faith formation, prayer and growth in virtue. It goes further to state, “Parents should, by their word and example, be the first preachers of the faith to their children; they should encourage them in the vocation which is proper

George Bush, Neil, George W., Barbara, Jeb and Marvin in a family portrait from 1956. —Reuters

to each of them, fostering with special care a vocation to a sacred state.” As a parent myself, this is both a daunting responsibility and an incredible gift from God.

Our school plays a vital role. We teach, mentor, coach, direct, moderate and lead. We strive for excellence in all aspects of high school: academics, athletics and fine arts. We talk about “the productive struggle” and share our faith, but we do not do this alone. We do it in partnership with our parents and guardians, whose daily guidance shapes the character of the young people entrusted to us.

The values, habits and faith formed around your dinner table prepare your child for our cafeteria table. The way you speak about teachers at home can either build trust in the classroom or erode it. The conversations in your car after a tough loss can either reinforce a coach’s lesson about discipline and teamwork or quietly undermine it. The way you speak about others either models charity and humility or normalizes criticism and comparison. The commitment to Sunday Mass either creates the expectation and standard or provides the excuse.

Fortunately, our cafeteria tables are filled with students who have been raised on strong foundations and are ready to flourish in our school. In my role, I get a frontrow seat to the excellence our students display every day. I often hear praise for the accomplishments of Roncalli students and alumni. While I appreciate it, the ultimate credit belongs to our families.

I will be the first to celebrate our students’ awards, titles, championships and achievements. But if Barbara Bush was right, and she was, then when a Roncalli student succeeds, it is because our families did the hard work first.

The home shapes the heart and the soul. The school sharpens the mind. High school is formative, but the home is foundational. When the home and school work together in partnership, you get something extraordinary: a Roncalli Royal.

Barbara Bush, First Lady of the United States, Official portrait, 1992—Wikipedia file

Pope Paul VI

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